Chimney Rock Park is a magical place that has been lovingly cared for by the Morse family for more than a century. I have been a season pass holder ever since I first rocketed up through the granite mountain in the elevator some 13 years ago, climbed onto the top of “the Rock” and then traversed across the mountain face up to the waterfall. My partner in Fairview is also a pass holder.
When I had a family reunion last year in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, all of my family purchased season tickets (even though they lived in other states). I visit Chimney Rock each and every season (many times in the season). I purchase food, drink, and can’t resist some of the nature CDs and well-made hats and T-shirts. When friends come from all over the U.S., Chimney Rock is always on the list as the place to visit.
I am amazed at how well maintained the trails are. Additionally, the Morse family creates unique ways to share the beauty of and show how to be good stewards of the environment. Some examples are the kudzu festival, the climbing wall and the interactive nature center, which is great fun for young and old. The amazing views and the varied microclimates found top to bottom are Mother Nature at her best. The fauna and flora are rich, diverse and irreplaceable.
I have memories of an eagle soaring in the winter, a biplane flying below the waterfall through Hickory Nut Gorge, early morning events on “the Rock” watching the sunrise and drinking hot chocolate, and learning about the fragile ecosystem while on guided tours through the backside of Chimney Rock Park. My dogs love to go step by step with me up to the falls and enjoy the cool water respite when we arrive there. Although I will be getting my knee replaced next month at the young age of 52, my goal is to get back up to “the Rock” once I’ve recovered.
My heart broke when I heard the news that the Morse family had decided the only option left was to place the property on the real estate market. It’s hard to imagine the next generation may not have those opportunities. All of these sentiments don’t even begin to address how devastating the loss of Chimney Rock Park would be for the businesses and families that depend on the countless number of visitors from all over the southeast and the country for their livelihood.
I was pleased to hear last year that this great state passed appropriations for funding the future Hickory Nut Gorge State Park. How can the park be complete without Chimney Rock Park as part of the process? I hope that Governor Easley and the state of North Carolina will continue to negotiate with the Morse family and that this incredible piece of beauty and legacy will be able to thrive and be experienced by all those that want to set off for explorations and wonder in this spectacle of nature.
Jennifer Humphreys is a registered nurse, employed at CarePartners Health Services for 10 years. She lives in Fairview, has a home in Lake Lure, and spends a lot of time at Chimney Rock.